How to Apply a Short Arm Cast

Usually broken arms are treated by the application of a fiberglass cast at the hospital. In an emergency, however, you may find that you have to apply a cast yourself. In such a case, a traditional plaster bandage cast is your best option. A short arm cast, extending from the hand to the elbow, is the ideal choice for injuries to the wrist or forearm.

Things You'll Need

• Gauze roll
• Plaster bandages
• Scissors
• Bowl of water (room temperature)

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Instructions

• 1

  The hand is wrapped, leaving the thumb and fingers free to move.

  Wrap the arm and hand in gauze or other stretchable cotton bandage material from a roll. Begin by wrapping the gauze around the hand between the thumb and fingers. After a few layers, then continue wrapping the gauze along the forearm to the elbow. Add a few additional layers to the wrist for added support. The gauze will provide a cushion between the plaster cast and the skin.

• 2

  Immerse the first roll of plaster bandages into water in a vertical position. Squeeze the roll until it stops releasing bubbles. This means that it is fully saturated and ready to use.

• 3

  Squeeze the soaked roll of plaster bandages over the bowl to remove any excess water.

• 4

  Roll the plaster bandage onto the gauze, starting at the hand, allowing half an inch of gauze to remain uncovered beyond the edges of the plaster bandage.

• 5

  Continue rolling the bandage down the arm, smoothing the plaster as you go to remove trapped air pockets and completely activate the plaster. Each roll of plaster bandages will form one layer of the cast.

• 6

  Fold the exposed gauze over the first layer of plaster.

• 7

  Soak a second roll of plaster bandages and apply it to the cast, covering the folded-over gauze. This will keep both the plaster and gauze from fraying while the cast is worn.

• 8

  Apply a third layer of plaster bandages for additional strength, if desired.

• 9

  Rub the plaster bandages with wet hands until the cast is smooth.

• 10

  Wash any splashed plaster off of the victim's skin and allow the plaster bandages to fully harden. The setting time will be clearly labeled on the bandage packaging.